Celtic Fusion International Musical Arts Festival
Wednesday 15 July – Sunday 19 July 2009
Where Music & Memories Meet
www.celticfusion.co.uk


THE MOURNES ARE ALIVE WITH THE SOUND OF MUSIC

The Mourne Mountains will come alive with the sound of music in July when the annual Celtic Fusion International Musical Arts Festival 2009 returns to Castlewellan and Newcastle for its eighth performance. Celtic Fusion will take place 15-19 July and runs nicely into The Ulster Fleadh from Sunday 19 – Sunday 26 July, which means there’s music and events to keep your toes tapping for most the holiday month.

Keenly anticipated by music lovers of all ages, Celtic Fusion 2009 will once again unite the best artistes from the traditional and modern music scenes and this year’s line-up promises an uplifting, inspirational festival ‘where music and memories meet’.

The festival will open on a high note with the Tommy Fleming, the “Voice of Ireland”, performing at the Slieve Donard on Wednesday 15th July. Tommy Fleming is not to be missed with his spine-tingling, haunting musical repertoire, with one song more powerful than the other. Those hoping to see Tommy perform live are advised to book their tickets now to avoid disappointment by calling +44 (0) 28 4372 2222 or checkout the website on www.celticfusion.co.uk

Back by popular demand are the ‘up close and personal’ gigs in Castlewellan’s local pub venues which enjoyed such a rousing response last year. Guaranteed to ensure intimacy between artiste and audience, these memorable gigs will re-create the intensified atmosphere of true traditional ‘sessions’.

The Lodge Cultural Centre, Castlewellan proudly hosts a superb choice of events, kicking off on Thursday 16th July with the inimitable Kieran Goss who will deliver poetic songs from the heart with his consummate ease and humour. On Friday 17th July, the Lodge brings you an exceedingly entertaining combination of Music, Stories & Tall Tales featuring Ben Sands, Patsy O’Hagan and Maranna McCloskey (with musicians Michael McCloskey & Barry Kerr) and on Saturday 18th July, Frances Black, one of Ireland’s best-loved and most talented vocalists, takes to the stage supported by up and coming local band, Neádar.

At Maginns Bar, Castlewellan on Friday 17th July the Celtic diversity continues with The Red Hot Chilli Pipers who will set a blistering pace with their rampant, rock-style ‘pipe and drum’ show which is guaranteed to entertain and amaze.

Meanwhile, The Kings Inn Castlewellan on Sunday 19 July hosts the collective musical talents of Martin O’Connor, Cathel Hayden, Seamie O’Dowd and Jimmy Higgins with lively traditional music sessions to put an inch to your step and a twinkle in your eye!

Ann Moreland, Events Organiser, Down District Council said;
“The Celtic Fusion festival has evolved over the past seven years into a true eclectic celebration of music and drama which continues to attract visitors from all corners of Ireland and beyond. This year we can look forward to five unforgettable days of Celtic Fusion with national and international artistes performing in concerts, sessions, outdoor entertainment, drama and much more.

“To make Celtic Fusion accessible to all, there’s a number of free events on this year’s programme, including a free Open Air Concert at Main Street, Castlewellan on Sunday 19th July, featuring The McClean Family, Coscan and Malachi Cush. The fabulous Trad Music Session Trail and the non-stop music and craic at the dedicated Festival Bar are also absolutely free, so there’s no excuse. Get yourself down to Castlewellan in July for a fusion of family fun and fantastic entertainment - where music and memories meet!“

For a FREE festival programme, accommodation information or to book tickets contact: Festival Hotline +44 (0)28 4372 2222 and visit our www.celticfusion.co.uk